Barium Swallow
Reviewed
Also called: esophagogram, esophagram, upper GI series, swallowing study, esophagography, modified barium swallow study
A barium swallow is an imaging test that uses a barium liquid and X-rays to check for problems in the upper gastrointestinal tract, including the throat, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
Specimen: Not applicable
Why this test may be ordered
- To help diagnose conditions affecting the upper GI tract, such as ulcers, GERD, hiatal hernia, structural problems, or tumors.
- To evaluate symptoms like trouble swallowing, abdominal pain, vomiting, or bloating.
Preparation and collection
You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) after midnight on the night before the test. Avoid smoking, chewing gum, or sucking on hard candy. Tell your provider about all medicines you take, as some may need to be stopped. But don't stop taking any medicines unless your provider tells you to.
You will stand, sit, or lie down on an X-ray table. You may change positions during the test. The radiologist may take X-rays first, then you will swallow a chalky-tasting liquid containing barium. While you swallow, the radiologist watches live images of the barium moving through your upper GI tract. The test takes 30 to 60 minutes.
You should not have this test if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant due to radiation risk to the developing baby. For others, the radiation dose is very low and not considered harmful for most people, but cumulative radiation exposure should be discussed with your provider. Your stool may appear white for several days, and you may have constipation if the barium does not pass completely. Contact your provider if you have persistent constipation. Inform your provider if you have any known allergies to barium.
Understanding results
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
- Normal: No abnormalities in size, shape, or movement were found in your upper GI tract. Limitation: A normal result does not rule out all conditions; your provider may consider other factors and tests. Next step: Discuss with your provider if symptoms persist or if further evaluation is needed.
- Abnormal: May indicate hiatal hernia, ulcers, tumors, polyps, diverticula, esophageal stricture, or signs of esophageal cancer. Limitation: This test alone cannot confirm a diagnosis; additional tests (e.g., endoscopy, biopsy) may be required. Next step: Your provider may recommend further testing, such as an esophagoscopy, to evaluate the findings.
- The test provides images, not a definitive diagnosis; further testing may be needed.
- Radiation exposure is small but cumulative; inform your provider of recent X-rays.
- Barium may cause constipation; contact your provider if persistent.
- Allergic reaction to barium is possible but rare.
- The test is not recommended during pregnancy.
What to do next
Consult with your healthcare provider to understand your results in the context of your overall health. Your provider may consider your symptoms, medical history, and the results of other tests. If an abnormal finding is suggestive of cancer, an esophagoscopy (with possible biopsy) may be performed.
- What does a normal or abnormal result mean for my health?
- How should I prepare for the test?
- Are there any risks or side effects from the barium or X-rays?
- How long does the test take and when will I get my results?
- What other tests might I need if the result is abnormal?